Sámara/Puerto Carrillo

Our first stop today is the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Here we will take the Sendero Las Pailas hiking trail, which is approximately 4 km long. The national park is known for its impressive combination of active volcanic activity, tropical forests, and spectacular waterfalls. It is home to the volcano of the same name, one of the most active in the country, and offers visitors the rare opportunity to see geothermal phenomena, such as bubbling mud pits, up close. Today is very hot, and the region is quite dry. The waterfall has very little water. There is much to discover here and to experience with all senses, especially the unique scent that surrounds the national park. We will learn about the “Naked Trees” or find the impressive Kapok tree, known for its fibrous seed hairs, here.

Today we are making our way to finally reach the Pacific coast. We are heading towards Sámara or near Puerto Carrillo. This is where our new accommodation is located: Leyenda Boutique Hotel & Spa. A long journey lies ahead of us, taking over 3 hours in total. However, the drive is worth it. Sámara is a laid-back coastal village on the Pacific coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. The small village boasts a 5 km long sandy beach and a protective reef. After arriving at our new accommodation, a large part of the group decides to take public transport (bus) to Sámara. To board the bus, you stand by the roadside and raise your hand or arm as soon as you see it coming. We only pay 500 Colones for the ride. Here we encounter locals directly, which is very nice. The ride is pleasant, and along the way, we pass the beautiful Carrillo Beach. This beach is considered one of the most beautiful and untouched beaches on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. The sand shines brightly, and the palms are illuminated by the sun. After about half an hour, we arrive in Sámara. The “Pura Vida” atmosphere here is impressive. Our path leads us straight to the beach and directly into the sea. The water is wonderfully warm. The beach is very clean. Meanwhile, the sun slowly sets. An indescribable feeling.

We enjoy the moment. During our time here, we visit “La Dolce Vita,” an Italian beach bar. Here we savor delicious cocktails and dinner, all accompanied by nice live music. We are having a great time together. For the return journey, we also take the bus again. Everything goes smoothly. Around half-past nine, we arrive back at the accommodation and take another dip in the pool. We gaze at a beautiful starry sky. Today was a very eventful day.